He was losing all assurance, both fear and rage were penetrating him.

And, after all, why not?
These extraordinary stories must be true.

"But in that case give me some advice," he exclaimed, "I asked you to come in here this evening precisely because I no longer know what to do, and need to be set in the right path--" Then he broke off and again paced to and fro, as if urged into motion by his exploding passion.

"Or rather no, tell me nothing!" he abruptly resumed.

"It's all over; I prefer to go away.